Technological Innovation and Support for CEREC Users

According to Tarun Agarwal, DDS, PA, of Raleigh, NC, the most important aspect of CAD/CAM dentistry is that “it has made dental treatment more readily available without sacrificing quality for our patients.” Agarwal, a certified trainer working with Sirona Dental Systems, says, “Clinically, with CAD/CAM, you are afforded the opportunity for complete control. You can control how precise your margins are, the design and contours of your restoration, the occlusal and interproximal contacts—and make sure the restorations are exactly what you want. The final result is better clinical outcomes more consistently.”

Sirona offers the highly regarded CEREC® system, now in its 25th year. The system components include the CEREC Bluecam, a high-performance PC, and innovative 3D software. The CEREC AC acquisition center has been designed to interface seamlessly within the normal practice workflow and includes an optional uninterrupted power supply and wireless link.

Building on its extensive experience, Sirona has recently taken CAD/CAM dentistry to the next level by introducing CEREC software with biogeneric capabilities. This user-friendly software can extrapolate the natural morphology of a single intact tooth to the patient’s damaged tooth structure, creating simpler, quicker, more precise, lifelike restorations.

And there’s more to come. “Right now Sirona is developing new materials—and new techniques within materials—to be able to provide in-office bridges through the use of zirconia porcelain,” Agarwal says. “In addition, soon you’ll have the ability to fabricate custom zirconia implant abutments through a lab or in the office. The company’s also developing the ability to mill models in the office or lab, so that instead of waiting for a centralized model company, you’ll be able to mill models whenever needed. Also on the horizon are porcelains that are stronger, more esthetic, and more lifelike—that’s the area that makes CAD/CAM dentistry more appealing to a wider population.”

While the economic advantages of CAD/CAM are tremendous, integration and implementation have been an issue in the past, as Agarwal explains. “However, we’re seeing big strides in software development. Software is becoming more intuitive, and companies have more experience and understanding of what clinicians and ceramists want the machine to do. Also, the options for high-quality support and in-depth training have increased considerably.”

For example, with Sirona technology, “there’s an incredible amount of support. When you purchase the machine, you have an online avenue to learn, to interact with others, and to exchange information. Sirona also provides troubleshooting for cases, whether you’re a new or seasoned user. You can upload a case, and several experts will review it to help you understand exactly what the hurdles were or how you can improve in the future.”

At the core of this support network is Sirona’s 25-year history in CAD/CAM technology. “With 25 years of hands-on user experience, they have a large network of advanced users and trainers. In other words, you’re not buying a technology that everyone’s just learning. You have a wide variety of choices that make training more accessible and make the learning experience more valuable.

“Technology is the great equalizer,” Argawal says. “It allows certain practices and laboratories to distinguish themselves. It opens up more avenues for smaller businesses, giving them the ability to provide more products to their clients without having to outsource. Finally, technology opens up communication, which builds relationships, which builds businesses—ultimately improving patient care and clinical outcomes.”